Commentary, J Addict Behav Ther Rehabil Vol: 12 Issue: 4

Sedative Dependence: Understanding the Complexities and Challenges

Rozainee Lahmad^*

¹School of Psychology and Human Development, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia

*Corresponding Author: Rozainee Lahmad,
School of Psychology and Human Development, University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
E-mail: raozaine.123lahmad@gmail.com

Received date: 24 July, 2023, Manuscript No. JABTR-23-112494;

Editor assigned date: 26 July, 2023, PreQC No. JABTR-23-112494 (PQ);

Reviewed date: 09 August, 2023, QC No. JABTR-23-112494;

Revised date: 16 August, 2023, Manuscript No. JABTR-23-112494 (R);

Published date: 24 August, 2023, DOI: 10.4172/2324-9005.1000054.

Citation: Lahmad R (2023) Sedative Dependence: Understanding the Complexities and Challenges. J Addict Behav Ther Rehabil 12:4.

Description

Sedative dependence, a subset of substance use disorders, poses a significant public health concern worldwide to increase awareness and promote effective interventions to address this growing problem. Sedative dependence, also known as sedative use disorder, refers to a pattern of problematic and compulsive use of sedative medications, such as benzodiazepines and sleep aids. While these drugs are prescribed to manage anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions, misuse and dependence can lead to severe physical, psychological, and social consequences. Understanding sedative dependence is important to reduce its prevalence and mitigate its impact on individuals and society. Sedative dependence is characterized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as a substance use disorder. It involves a cluster of symptoms, such as increased tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control use, and continued use despite adverse consequences. Common sedative drugs associated with dependence include alprazolam, diazepam, zolpidem, and others.

The development of sedative dependence is multifaceted and can be attributed to various factors: Genetic predisposition plays a role in an individual's vulnerability to sedative dependence. Some people may have a genetic makeup that makes them more prone to developing substance use disorders. Individuals with underlying mental health conditions, such as anxiety or insomnia, may be at a higher risk of becoming dependent on sedatives. Self-medication to alleviate emotional distress is a common pathway to dependence. Access to prescription sedatives and exposure to a culture that promotes substance use can contribute to dependence. Socioeconomic status, peer influence, and family history also play a role. Sedative dependence manifests with a range of symptoms.

Individuals require higher doses of sedatives to achieve the desired effect, which can lead to escalating use. When not using the drug, individuals may experience withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, insomnia, and irritability inability to cut down or control sedative use despite repeated attempts to do so persistent use despite negative consequences on physical health, relationships, and overall well-being.

The diagnosis of sedative dependence is typically made by healthcare professionals using clinical assessments and criteria outlined in the DSM-5. It is essential to differentiate between therapeutic use and dependence, as many individuals legitimately require sedatives for medical conditions. In cases of severe dependence, supervised detoxification in a medical facility may be necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Enhancement Therapy (MET) are commonly used to address the psychological aspects of dependence and develop coping strategies.

Conclusion

In some cases, tapering off the sedative medication under medical supervision can be helpful to minimize withdrawal symptoms gradually. Participation in support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can provide peer support and a sense of community during recovery. Preventing sedative dependence involves various strategies. Sedative dependence is a complex and potentially devastating condition that requires comprehensive understanding, early detection, and effective treatment. Addressing sedative dependence involves a multidimensional approach, including education, prevention, and access to appropriate care. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of sedative dependence and implementing evidence-based interventions, we can reduce its impact on individuals and society as a whole.